3 Best Sights in Cuba

Background Illustration for Sights

We've compiled the best of the best in Cuba - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Loma de la Cruz

Fodor's Choice

If you're up to the ascent, exactly 456 steps lead up to the Loma de la Cruz, a hill named for the large white cross that has graced it since 1790.

Pace yourself—you'll find landings every 50 steps or so—and bring water. The climb up can get hot.

From here you have a lovely view of Holguín and the surrounding limestone hills. There are also artisan shops and a snack bar.

Holguín, 80100, Cuba

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Balcón de Velázquez

This ceramic-tiled terrace is all that remains of a fort once used by authorities to monitor boat traffic. It's a great place to linger while taking in views of both the city and the bay. Music shows and other events are often held here, particularly on weekend evenings.

Calle Bartolomé Masó (San Basilio) y Calle Corona, Santiago de Cuba, 90100, Cuba
Sight Details
Free; CUC$1 photo permit; CUC$5 video permit

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Monserrate Heights Mirador

For a spectacular view of the city and the bay, hire a taxi to take you up to Monserrate Heights, a pleasant park that's also the site of La Ermita de Monserrate, a handsome, colonial-Spanish style church. Built in 1875, the church is a shrine to the patron saint of Catalonians who emigrated to Cuba. The view in the opposite direction is of the Yumuri River valley. If you manage to make the long, uphill climb here, there is a snack bar in the park where you can refresh yourself.
top of Calle 312, Matanzas, Cuba

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Recommended Fodor's Video